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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    Ive had depression for 6months, its gotten worse, why?

    Related Topics
    Depression Mental Health
    I just want it too stop destroying my life and hurting the people around me. im only on 50mg of Eleva but i dont take them everyday like im ment too.
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    Joe Gubbay

    Clinical Psychologist, Counsellor, Psychologist, Psychotherapist

    I have worked in public hospitals as well as private practice over the past 25 years. As a clinical psychologist I treat depression, social anxiety, … View Profile

    Antidepressants do need to be taken regularly to work; that's one thing you could change and see if it helps.  If for some reason you're not happy with the medication, you should take it up with your doctor.  If medication isn't something you're going to take daily, then speak to your doctor about getting a referral for psychological treatment, which can help to uncover why your depression is there in the first place, why it's getting worse, and how to get rid of it.  Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is the most common approach that psychologists use because it has the most evidence to back it up as effective, though there are other approaches with evidence to show they work too.  Again, your doctor is the person to speak to about getting a referral to a psychologist; that way you'll be able to claim most or all of the cost on Medicare.  

    Good luck with it,

    Joe.

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    steven1

    HealthShare Member

    my life is spiraling out of control through depression a well. i have just been able to admit my depression and are finding it really hard to focus on change, and not let depression control my life and feelings. i am finding just bieng able to talk to others in the same situation on this website is the back bone i need to feel strong and focused  to keep fighting. if you can  try to recognise the things that trigger your depression , and trying to look at those problems from a different point of view.   try  to accept that nothing is perfect, and and not worry about all the little things that  will bring you down. hope these words can give you a little strength .

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    Vivienne Colegrove

    Counsellor

    I have been working in Eltham, Melbourne as a relationship and family counsellor for over twelve years. I draw on current theory and research about … View Profile

    It sounds like you're not sure about the best way to manage your depression, and that you're not sure about whether taking medication is the answer for you. Joe makes some good points about this - it may be helpful to speak with your doctor about your medication, and to get a referral to a psychologist. I wonder what sense you make of your depression - what do YOU think is causing it? It may be helpful to see a counsellor to find a way forward that works on lifting the depression in a way that is meaningful within your perspective. Counselling isn't only about giving you strategies, although this may be important and helpful. It is also about giving you a space to connect to yourself and strengthen your perspective about what action you need to take and what support you may need to improve your situation, in other words - what is the depression telling you? Is it asking you to make some changes in your life that seem too hard to make? Only you can know deep down the answers to these questions.

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  • Dr Simon Easterbrook-Smith

    Health Professional

    My research interests include immunology and the mechanisms of amyloid formation. The latter has implications for people who are dealing with Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's Disease … View Profile

    I endorse what Joe and Vivienne have written.

    Often anti-depressants take a while to kick in fully (sometimes months). If you decide that Eleva is not helping you (though taking it every day is a good plan) then going back to your doctor to discuss another anti-depressant with a different pharmacology is worth considering.

    In my experience a combination of medication and CBT (which Joe mentioned) has been far more effective in dealing with my Major Depressive Disorder than either has been in isolation.

    All the best. 

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  • Margie Ulbrick

    Counsellor

    I am a Melbourne Relationship Counsellor and Family Lawyer who is skilful in helping people get out of the pain of relationship distress and create … View Profile

    I agree also with what others have said. Depression will get worse often when it is left untreated, just ike most medical conditions. Why suffer alone? Medication together with a good therapist can be just the thing to turn your life around. Good luck.

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  • Michael Nelson

    Counsellor

    I work in partnership with my clients to achieve the best possible outcome, specific to my clients goals and objectives. I am most experienced in … View Profile

    Firstly, visit your GP to review your medication, also ask them to check for any other medical condition e.g hypothyroidism. Other things to consider are diet (too much junk food can cause low mood), a significant loss e.g. the death of a pet or a loved one, relationship separation or distress and sleep deprivation. Finally, see a therapist.

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